Minister Ben Phiri Commends LCC Mayor’s Vision as Government Plans Metropolitan Police Service

Minister of Local Government and Urban Development Ben Malunga Phiri has commended Lilongwe City Council Mayor Peter Banda for unveiling an ambitious vision aimed at transforming the capital city.

The minister’s remarks come as the government is planning to establish a Metropolitan Police Service to combat vandalism and protect public infrastructure in urban centres.

Phiri described the mayor’s blueprint as achievable, saying Malawians will expect results and hold city authorities accountable for delivering on the vision.

He said the plan demonstrates not only a vision but also a strong commitment and desire to bring meaningful change to Lilongwe.

“Therefore, I am very optimistic. In no time, this vision will be realized, and Lilongwe will be a better example worthy of being called a capital,” said Phiri.

The minister called on Malawians across the political divide to support efforts aimed at building better cities, stressing that national development requires collective commitment.

He said Malawi’s transformation depends on the willingness of its citizens to embrace change and make the necessary sacrifices.

“Our country and cities will develop when Malawians decide to develop, because change comes with pain and sacrifice. Until we are ready to sacrifice and face that pain, we will not see any development,” he said.

Phiri also expressed concern over increasing cases of vandalism in cities, saying the trend is undermining development efforts and depriving citizens of the benefits of public investments.

He warned that the government will no longer tolerate the destruction and theft of public infrastructure, adding that perpetrators will face the full force of the law.

“For the first time in our history, we are introducing metropolitan police. Cities will have their own police units responsible for maintaining order and protecting infrastructure within urban areas,” said Phiri.

In his remarks, Lilongwe City Council Chief Executive Officer Clement Stambuli said the mayor’s vision provides a roadmap for transforming the city and called on residents to actively contribute to its realization.

Stambuli said the strategy prioritizes key areas including sanitation, to ensure a cleaner city, and security, to create an environment where residents can move freely and safely at any time.